- Lunar X and Lunar V
Sunlight catches rims at lunar first quarter to create the bright V and X shapes.
- Best viewing time in the UK
This is an evening twilight event for observers in the UK for British Summer Time (BST).
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–…Today: Friday 18th September 2026
–…Start formation: 18:15 / 6.15pm (become visible.)
–…Peak visibility: 20:15 / 8.15pm (fully formed as best contrast.)
–…Fade disappearing: 22:15 / 10.15am (The effect washes out as the sun rises higher over the lunar surface, removing the necessary shadows.)
–…Visible: good (visible at evening twilight.)
o - The Moon repeats its cycle every 29½ days, so these effects happen every month, just on slightly different dates – see the complete full timetable for 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
o - Equipment
While sometimes visible with high-power binoculars, a telescope is recommended to see the fine detail of the crater rims forming the Lunar X and V.
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